Hurtigruten Northern Lights

Cruise Line:Hurtigruten
Cruise Ship:MS Trollfjord
Destination:Baltic and Fjords

No. of Cruises:6 +
Date Sailed:January 2005
Age of Cruiser:36-45

Review by:

kaylesleigh

Overall
Quality of Food
Entertainment
Shore Excursions
Staff
Childrens Facilities
Onboard Activities

The first thing to remember about Hurtigruten (means speedy voyage in Norwegian btw) is they aren't a cruise company! Their ships are ferries and container vessels as well as taking holiday passengers, so you may stay longer in a port where they are loading twenty railway cars (it's happented to me) than scheduled. One good thing, they never push off early, even if there's nothing to load, but if you are back after sail time, you may easily find they've gone without you. I've sailed with them more than a dozen times, so I'll just pick a trip and random to describe, apart from the glacier cruise, the same information holds true for all their ships, I don't know about Fram as I haven't sailed on her yet and I believe she's a little more 'cruisy'. The cabins (still called cabins, not staterooms) are pleasant but don't necessarily have TV, refrigerator, safe, toiletries, etc, although the suites do. On the other hand, with absolutely Norwegian priorities you get superb bedding and underfloor heating in the bathroom so that your shower is utterly luxurious. There are cafes, children's playroom, small shops, and a buffet as well as a multiple sitting dining room in which you get sat at a table for the entire voyage and learn to bond with your travelling companions who, of course, may come and go, especially if they are only travelling on business. Breakfasts here are superlative, really good fresh fish like salmon, plus eggs, cheese, superb freshly baked bread ... lunch is similar and dinner is very good if somewhat simply presented by cruise ship standards. Americans find alcohol prices extreme, but as you are allowed to bring booze on board, but not drink it in public, do what the Norwegians do and drink an aperitif in your cabin! Tipping is not expected, although if you get special service feel free. Excursions are usually good - don't miss the dog sledding, and remember that many local people come along to events organised in port and may dress more formally than Americans do, so pack one nice set of clothes (warm ones for a winter sailing!) and wear them to concerts etc.